North Korea

North Korea covers about 120,500 km² on the northern part of the Korean Peninsula. Its landscape is largely mountainous, with narrow plains mainly along the western coast and river valleys. Major rivers such as the Yalu River help support agriculture in otherwise challenging terrain. The country has a temperate climate with cold winters and warm summers, affecting farming productivity.

Historically, agriculture has been central to livelihoods on the peninsula. After the establishment of the modern state in 1948, land reforms and collectivisation created a system of state-controlled farms that continues today.

The primary sector contributes roughly 20–25% of GDP and remains vital for food supply and employment. However, only about 20% of the land is suitable for cultivation due to mountainous conditions. Rice and maize are the main staple crops. Wheat, potatoes and soybeans are also grown. Livestock farming includes pigs, poultry and cattle, though production is limited by feed availability.

Forests cover a significant portion of the country, though deforestation has occurred in some regions.

North Korea has access to both the Yellow Sea and the Sea of Japan, supporting marine fisheries. Inland fishing in rivers and reservoirs also contributes to food supply.

Overall, North Korea’s primary sector reflects its mountainous geography and state-controlled agricultural system: staple crop production in limited arable areas, livestock raising and fisheries. Despite industrial priorities, agriculture remains essential for national food security.

In August 2013 was Gerold with Eric Meili in the framework of an EUAid project in North Korea. There we discussed food security with the Organic Agriculture Research Institute in Pyongyang and on the Mirim farm near the city.